Networking at a Local Business Event
An entrepreneur attends a local business networking event, introducing themselves and their venture to other professionals, seeking connections and potential collaborations.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
founder
The person who starts or creates a new business or organization. In networking, you might introduce yourself as the founder of your company to show leadership.
specialize
To focus on a particular area of business or work. For example, a company might specialize in eco-friendly products, which is common in entrepreneurship discussions.
sustainable
Something that can be maintained over time without harming the environment or resources. In business, sustainable practices help companies appeal to eco-conscious customers.
carbon footprint
The total amount of greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide, produced by human activities. Businesses often discuss reducing their carbon footprint to promote environmental responsibility.
inspired
Motivated or encouraged to do something creative or new. When sharing your business story, you might say what inspired you to start it.
passion
A strong feeling of enthusiasm or excitement about something. Entrepreneurs often talk about their passion to connect emotionally with others at networking events.
challenges
Difficulties or problems faced in achieving a goal. In business conversations, discussing challenges shows honesty and can lead to sharing advice.
commitment
A promise or dedication to do something reliably. In supplier relationships, commitment to fair practices builds trust and long-term partnerships.
optimize
To make something as effective or efficient as possible. In tech and business, you might optimize processes like server usage to save costs and resources.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Hi, I don't think we've met. I'm Sarah Chen, founder of 'GreenByte Tech'.
This is a polite way to introduce yourself at a networking event. Use it when meeting someone new; the phrase 'I don't think we've met' softens the introduction and invites a response. It's useful for building connections in business settings.
Nice to meet you, Sarah.
A standard response to an introduction. It's simple and friendly, showing politeness. Use this right after someone tells you their name to keep the conversation positive and professional.
What inspired you to start 'Artisan Eats'?
This question asks about the motivation behind starting a business. It's great for networking as it encourages storytelling. The structure 'What + verb + you to + infinitive' is a common way to inquire about reasons.
A passion for fresh, local ingredients and a desire to connect people with where their food comes from.
This explains the reason for starting a business using 'a passion for' and 'a desire to'. It's useful for sharing your 'why' in conversations; it helps others understand your mission and builds rapport.
Have you faced any particular challenges getting local suppliers on board?
This asks about specific difficulties in business operations. 'Faced challenges' is a common phrase; use it to show interest in someone's experiences. The past participle 'getting...on board' means involving or gaining support.
That makes sense.
A short way to agree or understand what someone said. It's casual and encouraging in conversations. Use it to acknowledge points without adding much, keeping the dialogue flowing smoothly.
It was a pleasure chatting. Here's my card.
This politely ends a conversation while exchanging contact info. 'It was a pleasure' expresses enjoyment; it's essential for networking to leave a positive impression and follow up later.
Let's definitely connect.
Suggests future contact in a positive, enthusiastic way. 'Definitely' adds emphasis and commitment. Use this at the end of business talks to show interest in collaboration without being pushy.